My name is Ann, and I am a single mom. I adopted two beautiful sisters in the late fall of 2011. I am hoping to journal my journey as a mom and share my ups and downs...most of all, my heart. I hope that we can encourage each other through this journey.

The Romagnolo Family

Monday, August 15, 2016

The Road To My First Half Marathon: The Mental Training

Running is just as much mental as it is physical.This past Saturday I had to give myself a
major “pep talk” during my run.You see,
I want to be a fast runner like some of my running heroes.I want to be able to run a 5K in 30 minutes
or less.My friend Angie can do
that.I want to be like Angie.Going into my run on Saturday I was feeling a
little discouraged.So many of my women
running heroes are thinner and faster than me.I have been working since January of 2015 to get to my goal weight.I am about 10-15 pounds away from that
goal.Seriously y’all.I LOVE food!Some people drink their calories.I EAT them!!!I also eat my
emotions and my boredom.The struggle is
REAL!!!Can I get an “Amen?”

During my run I had to remind myself just how far I’ve
come.It was only 8 months ago that I
started running.Some of my running
heroes are taller than me.Their legs
are going to take them farther and faster.I’m 5’4”.Okay, 5’3 and ¾”.JMy legs might not get there as fast.I have consistently brought my 5K time down
with each race that I do though.THAT is what I
need to remind myself, not who is faster or better than me.Listening to the lies from the devil that I’m
not thin enough or fast enough is counter-productive.My focus should be to keep taking this
journey one day at a time and not comparing myself to others.During my run this past Saturday, I had to
remind myself that it’s about finishing and finishing strong, not necessarily
the fastest.If I worry about who is
faster than me, than I won’t enjoy this journey.I don’t want to miss out on the fun.I’m going to keep with my training and still
strive to be better, but I’m not going to let it consume me.I will finish and I will finish strong.Have you heard this song from Katy Perry?Listen to the words.I love
it!

I might cry too!JThese will be my “gold” medals too!

No matter what life throws you, keep pressing on.Get back up and push forward.Don’t just survive!